At 21, Coco Gauff Has Enjoyed Hanging Out with Emerging Teens at the Australian Open

At just 21, Coco Gauff is already a Grand Slam champion, a global superstar, and one of the most recognizable faces in tennis. Yet at this year’s Australian Open, it wasn’t just her forehand or footwork that caught attention—it was how naturally she connected with the next wave of teenage talent on tour. While the pressure of being a top seed is real, Gauff has embraced a different role in Melbourne: big sister energy.

Gauff has always been young for her achievements, breaking through as a 15-year-old at Wimbledon and growing up in the spotlight. Now, she finds herself on the other side of that story—hanging out with rising teens who are experiencing their first taste of the big stage. From practice sessions to off-court moments in the players’ lounge, Coco has enjoyed the chance to share laughs, advice, and perspective with players who remind her of herself just a few years ago.

“It’s funny,” Gauff has hinted in interviews, “because I still feel young, but now there are players coming up who are even younger than me.” That shift has been refreshing for her. Instead of carrying the “teen prodigy” label alone, she’s now part of a small but growing group of young stars shaping the future of women’s tennis together.

At the Australian Open, that youthful energy has been everywhere—TikToks, casual hangouts, shared meals, and the kind of relaxed moments that balance out the intensity of Grand Slam competition. Gauff’s ability to stay grounded while connecting with these emerging teens shows her maturity beyond her years. She’s not just leading with her racket, but with her personality.

On court, Coco is all business: fierce, focused, and hungry for more major titles. Off court, she’s still very much 21—curious, playful, and enjoying the company of peers who understand exactly what life on tour feels like at such a young age.

The Australian Open has become more than just a battleground for Gauff this year. It’s also a space where she’s found joy in mentorship, friendship, and shared ambition. And as the next generation rises, one thing is clear: Coco Gauff isn’t just part of the future of tennis—she’s helping shape it, one hangout at a time.